The Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment has been receiving numerous calls from the public regarding abandoned wildlife, including baby ducks, goslings, songbirds and fawns.
While it may appear that a young wild animal has been abandoned, the ministry advises it is more likely the parent is out searching for food, or people have temporarily frightened the parent away. Unless the parent is found dead near the young animal, the adult typically returns as soon as people leave.
The ministry offers some advice to the public for when they come across young wildlife.
Although this can be difficult, it is best to leave them where they are found.
If a young bird has fallen out of the nest, return it to the nest or leave it as is, as baby birds often fall out when first learning to fly.
Young geese or ducks can be released at the nearest body of water ducks and geese are using to raise their young.
It is recommended to avoid young raccoons and skunks as these are noted carriers of rabies in Saskatchewan.
Rescuing a wild animal can often do more harm than good. Animals raised by humans have a reduced ability to find food in the wild and may not be afraid of predators. The Ministry of Environment does not issue permits to allow people to keep animals that are taken from the wild. People who do so could face a penalty. Only licensed zoos are allowed to permanently keep wildlife in captivity.
If you are concerned about a young animal or bird that appears to be on its own, contact your local conservation officer for assistance. If it is after-hours, call our toll-free Turn-In-Poacher (TIPS) hotline at 1-800-667-7561, 24 hours a day or #5555 for SaskTel cell phone subscribers.
